
Lord Mayor Cllr Tom Hartley with George Best Belfast City Airport Chief Executive Brian Ambrose on a tour of air-traffic control
Figures released from George Best Belfast City Airport show total passenger numbers during April 2009 were up almost 3% on April 2008; significantly better than most other airports in the UK.
In a recent visit to the airport, Lord Mayor of Belfast Tom Hartley said: “I am delighted to see an increase in passenger numbers flying from the George Best Belfast City Airport. The plans for the reconfiguration of the terminal when complete will be an asset to our continuing tourism aspirations.
“Despite the global economic downturn, tourism is one of the most important and growing aspects of our economy.
“Moreover, the aggressive marketing of Belfast over the past number of years as a vibrant, exciting destination for both business and leisure travelers has contributed to the continuing rise of visitors to Belfast and it’s encouraging to see George Best Belfast City Airport assisting the development of the Belfast brand.”
Situated just five minutes from the city centre, the location of the airport is seen as a major factor in its success among leisure and business travelers alike.
Brian Ambrose, Chief Executive, George Best Belfast City Airport, said: “I wish to thank the Lord Mayor for taking time out of his busy schedule to tour the airport and give his seal of approval for our future plans.
“For many, George Best Belfast City Airport is their first experience of what Belfast has to offer. First impressions last and it is vital we have a product that sets the tone for the rest of their visit.
“To this end we will be embarking on a £6million upgrade of facilitates both inside and outside the terminal.